Are you prepared for double the expense (medical costs, food, etc.) and double the work (poop scooping, vacuuming, training, walking which sometimes must be done separately - etc.)?

Do you want another dog for you…or for your dog?

Does everyone in your home want another dog?

Have you ever lived with more than one dog?

It’s a Good Match if:

Both dogs are in approximately the same physical health

Both dogs are spayed/neutered

Both dogs show play behaviors like bows, chase games and toy sharing

Both dogs will be able to settle down after a good play session

Both dogs will have the same energy level/activity level

Both dogs will have the same play style (running, light mouthing, rough wrestling, etc.)

The dogs may lick each other’s lips

The dogs trade submissive roll-overs during play one dog is on the bottom, then the other

It’s a Not-So-Good Match if:

Either dog hides or tries to escape the other

Either dog rushes up and is overly invasive of the other dog’s space

Either dog shows aggression (snapping, growling, biting, etc.)

Either dog uses an averted gaze (turns head and eyes away from the other) and does not attempt to play or meet

One dog avoids the other

One dog becomes jealous of the other

One dog is bullied or intimidated by the other (one dog constantly being picked at or always on the bottom during every play sessions)

One dog paws hard at the face and shoulders of the other, who doesn’t like it

One dog plays too rough and makes the other squeal

Other Helpful Hints:Some people believe that pairing spayed/neutered dogs of the opposite sex is one way to help ensure harmony between dogs. While this can work, there truly are no guarantees. It really boils down to each dog’s personality. For example, if your dog is “status seeking” you would want to find a companion dog who is not interested in ranking high in your family “pack” (a more submissive dog).

Sex can play a definite role in compatibility, especially if the animals are intact (not spayed/neutered). The longer a male dog is intact, the higher the level of testosterone in his system, and the more likely he is to assert himself which can lead to aggression. But, again, nothing is 100% certain. And female dogs who decide not to get along are more likely to cause damage to each other than males.

Next Steps:If you’ve decided that:

You are ready and able to provide double the time, effort and finances

Your dog doesn’t guard his belongings (including you!)

Your dog is in good physical shape and can enjoy play time

Your dog is well behaved and doesn’t have any bad habits he/she could teach a new dog

Your dog isn’t overly pushy or demanding

Your dog likes the company of other dogs

Your family is in agreement that adding another dog is a good idea

Good for you! The Michigan Humane Society strongly urges you to bring your dog to the adoption center to meet the potential new dog you’ve selected before you adopt. Our trained adoption counselors can help you determine whether the two dogs may be compatible in your home.